DA party leaders urged to use GNU to oppose Eskom's proposed electricity hike

CAPE TOWN - Some Democratic Alliance (DA) supporters are calling on party leaders to use the Government of National Unity (GNU)’s internal structures to oppose Eskom’s proposal for an electricity tariff hike.

Consumers may have to dig deeper in their pockets to keep their lights on should the utility be given the go-ahead to implement a 40% tariff increase.

DA members picketed at communities across the country on Wednesday, ventilating their disdain for Eskom’s proposal.

With the DA now an active member of government, some of its supporters said the party must act against what they’ve termed as Eskom’s abuse of power.

Despite the party having no influence in the electricity and energy ministry, some believe its proximity to the powers that be may convince Eskom to settle for a more reasonable tariff hike.

DA councillor in Tshwane, David Farquharson, said the party was taking all necessary steps to ensure Eskom listened to its concerns.

"Our GNU representatives are fighting it in Parliament and we are fighting it in the streets. We don't want their increase, we can't afford the increase."

In the last financial year, Eskom was granted a 13% tariff increase despite asking for a hike of at least 32%.